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If you’re itching to escape Melbourne and soak up some nature (for free!), do I have some good news for you. Victoria is packed with stunning free camping spots, and plenty of them are an easy drive from Melbourne City. Whether you’re a fan of hiking, swimming, or just chilling by the campfire with your four-legged friend, there’s a camping spot for everyone. So, pack your gear, grab your mates, and let’s explore my favourite free camping spots near Melbourne together (yes, I’m inviting myself along for the ride!)
Best Free Melbourne Campsites at a Glance
- Best for escaping the crowds: Aberfeldy River
- Best for water activities: Meredith Park Campground
- Best campsite near hiking trails: Plantation Campground
- Best for dogs: Johanna Beach
1. Meredith Park Campground
- Location: 175 Meredith Park Rd, Ondit, VIC, 3249
- Distance from Melbourne: 2 hours (153 km)
- Features: Lakeside views, water access, restrooms, wood-fired BBQs
Meredith Park is hands down one of my favourite free camping spots for a chilled weekend by the water. Right on the shores of Lake Colac, it’s the perfect place if you’re into fishing, kayaking, SUPing or just lounging lakeside with a good book. The park has all the essentials – BBQ areas, toilets, and plenty of shady spots to relax. There are also some lovely walking trails nearby if you feel like stretching your legs and taking in the views.
What makes Meredith Park an amazing free camping spot is the lake is right there – I mean look at the picture above. It’s huge! And beautiful! It’s dog-friendly too, but dogs must be on-leash at all times. Colac Otway Shire Council says trained dogs may be off-leash, so do with that info what you will.
If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can check out the Red Rock Volcanic Complex for some epic views or stroll through the Colac Botanic Gardens nearby too/
It’s also worth mentioning you need an online permit if you want to camp longer than 24 hours. It’s still free – but the permit is necessary.
2. Stevensons Falls
- Location: Roadknight Creek Rd, Barramunga, VIC, 3249
- Distance from Melbourne: 2 hours and 20 minutes (170 km)
- Features: Dog-friendly, picnic tables, fires allowed, caravan access, toilets
Stevensons Falls is one of my absolute favourite camping spots in the Otways. The campground is massive, so there’s heaps of space to spread out, and it’s dog-friendly! So I always bring my dog along for the adventure. With fires allowed, nights by the campfire feel extra cosy, plus the caravan access and toilets make things super convenient.
The best part? The gorgeous Stevensons Falls is just a quick and easy 500-metre stroll from the campsite. If you’re in the mood for more exploring, Lake Elizabeth is just a short drive away, and for those who like a bit of MTB action, the Forrest Mountain Bike Trails are close by too. Honestly, it’s the perfect spot for a weekend of adventure, relaxation, and good vibes.
3. Aberfeldy River
- Location: Plane Track, off Walhalla Road, Mt Baw Baw, VIC, 3833
- Distance from Melbourne: 2 hours and 30 minutes (198 km)
- Features: Toilets, BYO water and firewood, 4WD only
If you’re looking for a free off-the-grid adventure, Aberfeldy River campground is for you. It’s so off-grid, you’ll need a 4WD to get here. Situated in Baw Baw National Park, this little gem is remote, quiet, and perfect for those of us who love being deep in nature. With only 7 or 8 campsites, it’s super cosy and doesn’t get overly crowded.
This spot truly comes alive in summer – with gorgeous wildflowers blooming everywhere! There are drop toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits, so you can still get that classic campfire vibe going. And the river’s right there for water (just remember to boil it first).
There’s plenty of great stuff nearby to keep you busy. The Thomson River has some epic whitewater rafting. There’s also an amazing hike up to the top of Mt. St Gwinear, and the views from the summit? Incredible. History lovers will appreciate the Toombon Historic Walk, where you can check out old gold mining relics.
4. Kurth Kiln
- Location: Beenak Rd, Hoddles Creek, VIC, 3139
- Distance from Melbourne: 1 hour 15 minutes (73 km)
- Features: Dog-friendly, drop toilets, surrounded by nature, great for walks
Kurth Kiln Regional Park is such a fun spot to camp, especially if you’re craving a bit of history, nature, and adventure all in one place. It’s an especially good free camping spot if you’re into horse riding. With plenty of trails perfect for riding, you can explore the beautiful bushland on horseback! Or, you can also explore on foot.
The camping ground is huge, so if you go at the right time, you should be able to enjoy a little slice of it all to yourself. Nearby, you’ll find the Tomahawk Creek Trail for a chill bushwalk, and the stunning Shiprock Falls is close by if you’re in the mood for a waterfall adventure. Plus, if you’re still feeling adventurous, Bunyip State Park is right next door for even more exploring.
5. Johanna Beach
- Location: Old Coach Road, Johanna, VIC, 3238
- Distance from Melbourne: 3 hours (223 km)
- Features: Dog-friendly (on-lead), coastal location, surf beach, 25 sites with ocean views
Johanna Beach Campground is an absolute dream if you love beachside camping with a killer view. With 25 sites overlooking the ocean, you’ll fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing. Does a free camp spot get much better!? It’s also part of the Great Ocean Walk, so you can wake up and hit the trail straight from your campsite. Plus, it’s dog-friendly (as long as they’re on a lead) and you can take them on-leash on the beach too.
Johanna Beach itself is known for some epic surf breaks, so make sure to bring your board. You’ve also got Great Otway National Park nearby for even more exploring, and if you’re up for a bit of a drive, the famous Twelve Apostles are just about an hour away.
6. Andersons Garden
- Location: Boundary Rd, Clonbinane, VIC 3658
- Distance from Melbourne: 50 minutes (59 km)
- Features: Pet-friendly, free toilets, BBQ areas, caravan access, phone reception, walking trails, and allows fires
When I want to escape the city and keep things simple, Andersons Garden is my go-to. It’s tucked away in the Mount Disappointment State Forest, and the name couldn’t be more misleading – there’s nothing disappointing about it. The site is pretty basic, with just drop toilets, picnic tables, and fire pits, but that’s part of the charm. There’s a little creek nearby where I love to cool off in warmer weather (or you can try a bit of fishing, if that’s your thing).
Andersons Garden is under an hour from Melbourne, which is great, but it also means it can get busy on weekends, so I’d recommend heading in early if possible. Also, it’s advertised as a 4WD-accessible only campsite, but I think most 2WD could handle the road in and out in dry weather.
There are some great hiking trails in the Mount Disappointment State Forest (like the Mount Disappointment Summit Loop), and Sunday Creek is perfect for a relaxing wander. It’s one of those places where you can totally switch off, breathe in the fresh air, and just enjoy the simple life.
7. Plantation Campground
- Location: Mt Zero Rd, Halls Gap, VIC, 3381
- Distance from Melbourne: 3 hours and 20 minutes (260 km)
- Features: Large campsite, drop toilets, unpowered sites, fire pits, picnic tables
A visit to The Grampians National Park is a vital Melburnian tradition and Plantation Campground is a free campsite that effortlessly shines a light on this stunning national park. If you’re up for a challenge, the Plantation Lookout on the Mount Difficult Range trail is a 5km trek with stunning views that are totally worth the effort.
And with MacKenzie Falls and The Pinnacle nearby, you’re spoiled for choice when it comes to jaw-dropping natural beauty. The Grampians is also amazing for some 4WD adventures! So, whether you’re into hiking, a fourby enthusiast, or just enjoy sitting by the fire and looking up at the stars, Plantation Campground is a gorgeous free campsite near Melbourne to help you get back to nature.
8. Blue Pool Campground
- Location: Freestone Creek Rd, Briagolong, VIC, 3860
- Distance from Melbourne: 3 hours (247 km)
- Features: Dog-friendly, crystal-clear swimming hole, bathrooms
It’s kind of amazing that Blue Pool campground is free – it’s such a dreamy spot that’s the perfect camping escape in summer. Tucked away in a narrow gorge along Freestone Creek, surrounded by rocky cliffs and native bushland and with a big natural swimming hole, you’ve got everything you need for a beautiful camping trip.
The campground is just a short walk from the swimming hole, with 12 walk-in sites, each equipped with a fire pit and picnic table. It’s dog-friendly, too! Since it’s a popular spot, especially on weekends and holidays, it can fill up fast. If it’s full, don’t stress – there are more campsites further along Freestone Creek Road. Oh and if you want more adventure options, the Alpine National Park isn’t far either.
9. Beauchamp Falls Campground
- Location: Flannagan Rd, Beech Forest VIC 3237
- Distance from Melbourne: 2 hours and 30 minutes (200 km)
- Features: Dog-friendly, close to waterfalls and Great Ocean Road
Beauchamp Falls Campground is a fantastic free camp spot near Melbourne if you’re looking to camp surrounded by lush rainforest. It’s very family-friendly (including four-legged pals) and it’s not far from the Great Ocean Road, so it makes for a great stop on a bigger adventure.
One of the highlights here is the Beauchamp Falls walking track, a 3km return hike through the forest that leads to the stunning waterfall. If you’re in the mood for more exploring, Hopetoun Falls and Triplet Falls are both nearby, offering even more spectacular views.
How We Made This List
This list of the best free camping spots near Melbourne is based on our experience, in-depth research and Google/Reddit reviews. As expert journalists who guide people between competing products and services, we have provided our independent opinion in formulating our selections.
Our editors have taken into account the location from Melbourne CBD, amenities, features and the variety of outdoor activities you can do near these free campsites. If you’d like, you can review our editorial policy here surrounding how we maintain our independence in our editorial reviews.
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Free Campsites Near Melbourne FAQs
Wild camping (also known as dispersed or bush camping) is allowed in many national and state parks across Victoria. While it’s a great way to truly immerse yourself in nature, you’ll need to be self-sufficient, as some spots have limited or no facilities and mobile reception can be spotty. Be sure to plan ahead, pack everything you need, and always leave no trace!
Finding free campsites is super easy! You can use apps like Aircamp, Camps Australia Wide or WikiCamps Australia to see what’s nearby, complete with reviews and details. Local council websites and national park pages are also great resources. Just double-check that camping is allowed in the spot you pick and follow any rules.
Camping on the side of the road in Victoria is generally a no-go. It’s much safer (and legal) to stick to designated free campsites in state forests or parks. If you’re on a long trip and need a break, rest areas are good for short stops, but they’re not meant for overnight stays. Just keep and eye out for signs or local regulations to make sure you’re free camping in the right spots.
